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The Aadhaar card is an important document that everyone in India must have. It plays an important role in different purposes including opening a bank account, booking train or flight tickets, or even applying for any government scheme. Therefore, it’s a proof of identity for every Indian citizen, and if anyone does not carry or submit an Aadhaar card it can restrict the person for several activities.
In this guide, you will get all the answers related to an Aadhaar card such as what is Aadhaar card, what are the benefits of having it, how to register and download it, and the process for linking with PAN.
The Aadhaar card is a unique identification number of 12 digits, issued by UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India). This is a unique number that acts as identity proof for every citizen of India, issued by the Indian government.
UIDAI collects the biometric and demographic details of every person to generate the Aadhaar card. The Aadhaar card consists of information such as a photograph, full name, gender, address, date of birth, fingerprints, and 12-digit Aadhaar number.
Also, the card contains a QR code that can be scanned to see the details of the cardholder easily.
Every person living in India, including NRIs, foreigners, and minor children, who have been in India for more than a year.
Moreover, children below 5 years of age are intended to get BAAL Aadhaar (does not require the biometric data of a child, just a photograph). However, one of the parents needs to provide their Aadhaar Card for the authentication. Once the child turns 15, his/her Aadhaar Card will be updated with the latest biometric details and photograph.
Having an Aadhaar card is not only restricted as identity proof, but also it provides several benefits that include:
Aadhaar serves as a universally accepted proof of identity and address. It is recognized by various institutions across the country, making it easier for individuals to verify their identity without needing multiple documents.
The Aadhaar card is crucial for availing government subsidies and welfare schemes. The government uses Aadhaar to ensure that benefits reach the intended beneficiaries directly, reducing the chances of fraud and corruption. For example, subsidies for LPG, scholarships, and pensions are directly credited to the bank accounts linked with Aadhaar.
Aadhaar has simplified the process of opening a bank account. Many banks allow instant account opening with just the Aadhaar card and e-KYC (Know Your Customer) verification. This has been particularly beneficial in promoting financial inclusion across rural and urban India.
Linking your Aadhaar with your PAN card has been made mandatory for filing income tax returns (ITR). This linkage helps in preventing tax evasion and ensures that all financial transactions are accounted for under a single identification number.
Aadhaar plays a central role in the Digital India initiative, enabling easy access to various digital services. It is used for e-signing documents, mobile number verification, and accessing online services such as DigiLocker, which allows citizens to store and access their important documents digitally.
To curb the misuse of SIM cards and ensure security, the government has made it mandatory to link your Aadhaar number with your mobile phone number. This also facilitates easier KYC processes when obtaining a new SIM card.
For retirees, Aadhaar is essential for accessing pensions and social security benefits. By linking Aadhaar with pension accounts, the government ensures timely disbursement of pensions directly into the beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
Many educational institutions require Aadhaar for admission purposes. It acts as a reliable proof of identity and helps in maintaining a centralized database of students.
The Aadhaar-enabled Payment System allows individuals to make financial transactions using their Aadhaar number and biometric authentication. This is particularly useful in rural areas where banking infrastructure is limited.
Locate Your Nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre
Visit one of the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centres that have the authority to accept applications for generating an Aadhaar card. You can find the list of centers on the UIDAI website.
Carry the Required Documents
You need to carry some important documents such as a birth certificate, that are required when applying for an Aadhaar card.
Biometric Data Collection
At the center, they will take your photo and scan your fingerprints and eyes.
Receive Acknowledgment Receipt
After everything is done, you will get an acknowledgment receipt that consists of a 14-digit number which helps to track the status of your application.
Wait for Verification and Delivery
Once the verification is done by UIDAI, your Aadhaar Card will be sent to the address provided by you.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about the documents or the process, ApkiReturn can guide you through each step and even help with submitting the right forms!
After applying for the Aadhaar Card, if you want to check the status of your Aadhaar Card, you can follow the below steps:
*Note*: Generally, it takes some time for UIDAI to allot an Aadhaar number. Additionally, more time is taken for the physical Aadhaar card to reach your home.
It may take time to receive your Aadhaar card in physical form. However, you can still get your Aadhaar Card, after the allotment of Aadhaar number. Here’s how:
Over time, you may need to update your Aadhaar details, whether it’s a change in address, mobile number, or even correcting a mistake. Here’s how you can do it:
Linking your Aadhaar with various services ensures that you can fully benefit from government schemes and services. Below are the steps to link Aadhaar with some essential services:
Linking Aadhaar with your PAN card is mandatory for filing income tax returns. Here’s how you can do it:
Linking your Aadhaar with your bank account is essential for receiving government subsidies and benefits directly into your account. You can do this via:
Linking your Aadhaar with your mobile number is crucial for verifying your identity and ensuring the security of your SIM card. Here’s how you can do it:
Linking Aadhaar with your Voter ID (EPIC) helps ensure that your voter details are accurate and up to date. Here’s the process:
Linking your Aadhaar to your LPG connection ensures that you receive your subsidy directly into your bank account:
To sum up, an Aadhaar Card is an important document that acts as proof of identity and can help you in many ways. Whether you’re getting government benefits or opening a bank account, having an Aadhaar Card makes things easier. Now that you know how to get it and keep it safe, you’re all set!
Remember, ApkiReturn is always here to help you with any Aadhaar Card related needs, from applying to updating your details. We make it easy so you can focus on what matters most!
No, fee is charged at the time of Aadhaar card enrolment. You can visit any Aadhaar enrolment centre with your identity proof and documents.
The Aadhaar Card is valid for a lifetime. But, as per new norms the same has to be updated every 10 years. This provision has been introduced keeping in mind the recent fraudulent transactions taking place using the Aadhar Cards which aren’t being used for long time.
Yes, foreign citizens can avail of an Aadhaar Card, if they have lived in India for 182 days, but the Aadhaar card will not be considered as proof of citizenship for them.
While Aadhaar is a secure identification system, it is advisable to share your Aadhaar number only with trusted entities. Always ensure that you are sharing your Aadhaar details with verified and authorized service providers.
e-Aadhaar is a digital version of your Aadhaar card that you can download from the UIDAI website. It is as valid as the physical Aadhaar card and can be used for all purposes where Aadhaar is required.
You can check the status of your Aadhaar application by visiting the UIDAI website and entering your enrollment ID, which is provided to you when you apply for Aadhaar.
If you lose your Aadhaar card, you can download an e-Aadhaar from the UIDAI website using your Aadhaar number or enrollment ID. Alternatively, you can visit an enrollment center to request a reprint.
Yes, you can update certain details such as address and mobile number online through the UIDAI portal. However, for biometric updates or changes in other critical information, you may need to visit an Aadhaar enrollment center.
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